Fire marshal asking citizens to practice safety and know the regulations
CAMAS-WASHOUGAL — Consumer fireworks may only be discharged on July 4 in Camas and Washougal this holiday season. Additionally, an ordinance passed by the Washougal City council in November of 2017 changed the types of fireworks allowed within their city limits to only those that fall under the definition of “safe and sane.”
Safe and sane fireworks are those at are neither projectile nor explosive. Any fireworks that fly, explode or travel more than one foot into the air (such as mortars and roman candles) or more than 6 feet on the ground do not fit the definition of safe and sane and are therefore illegal for sales or use within the city limits of Washougal.
Local agencies will be on patrol to enforce these new fireworks regulations. Fire Marshal Ron Schumacher cautions that “using illegal fireworks or discharging fireworks outside of legally permitted dates and times may result in a fine and the possible confiscation of your fireworks.” The penalties start at $250 for the first offense, $500 fine for a second offense, $750 fine for a third offense, and $1,000.00 for each subsequent offense within a three-year period.
Fireworks stands in both Camas and Washougal will be open July 2 through July 4 from 9 a.m.–11 p.m., and in Camas they will also be open on July 5 from 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Camas residents can find a complete list of legal consumer fireworks at:
http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fireworks/.
Washougal residents can find a complete list of safe and sane on the city website at:
https://www.cityofwashougal.us/fire/page/4th-july-fireworks-limitations-safety-tips
The Fourth of July is a time for fun, but citizens must practice safety and know the regulations.
With the dry conditions the Fire Marshal encourages everyone to please handle fireworks responsibly and be courteous to neighbors. “Safety should be the top priority,” said Schumacher. “We want everyone in our cities to have a happy and safe celebration.’’
For more information, contact:
The Camas-Washougal Fire Marshal’s Office
(360) 834-6191, fmo@cityofcamas.us
Ron Schumacher, fire marshal
Randy Miller and Kevin Bergstrom, deputy fire marshals
Information provided by Camas-Washougal Fire Department.
